Hampton Police chief speaks at City Council meeting

Amid a City Council chamber full of supporters and dissidents, embattled Hampton Police Division Chief Charles "Chuck" Jordan Jr. spoke Wednesday evening about the investigation that forced him into paid leave.

"I'm very fortunate to have the job that I have, and have the job that I love, and have a job that means a great deal to me," Jordan said.

Jordan was placed on paid administrative leave last Wednesday while City Manager Mary Bunting ordered an independent investigation and audit of the police division and the undercover cigarette sting its officers operated.

The 19-month sting aimed to crack down on illegal cigarette traffickers but resulted in no arrests or charges. More than $3 million flowed through the account attached to the sting. The undercover operation was terminated by Jordan in January after allegations of misconduct in connection with money used for travel-related expenses.

Bunting has said hiring outside help to review the cigarette operation will give the City Council a full opportunity to understand how proceeds from the sting were used and why misconduct allegations were filed.

"I want to ensure that all angles of this matter are fully vetted and understood," Bunting wrote in a statement announcing the investigation.

Wednesday evening, Jordan used the speakers' podium as a venue to express confidence in the police division.

"I also believe in the process because the world we live in, in law enforcement, processes are all about getting to the truth," Jordan said. "When you jam the truth with innuendo and rumors, you end up with a bad outcome."

He added: "The truth will reveal itself in the facts."

Eight members of the Coalition for Justice for Civil Rights also spoke Wednesday evening, many of whom asked for Bunting and Jordan to resign from their respective positions.

The Rev. Marcellus Harriscalled for Jordan's immediate resignation. He also asked that the City Council allow the public to be involved in the selection of the next police chief. Kevin Watkins said the coalition is opposed to Bunting's appointment of Acting Police Chief Thomas Townsend, who is overseeing the department during the investigation. In addition to their concerns about the cigarette sting, coalition members said too many complaints have been filed against the Police Division for misconduct during Jordan's tenure.

Many of Jordan's supporters arrived in the City Council chamber wearing blue shirts. They stood in ovation after Jordan's speech, despite being previously warned by Mayor Molly Joseph Ward about clapping during the meeting.

Jordan's pastor, Freddy Villarreal, said he believes the investigation and audit should be completed before judgment is passed.

"I don't think everyone in here knows everything," said Villarreal, of Freedom Life Church. "I encourage you to be intentional with your communications with the people."

Thurman Clark, a retired police sergeant, said he supports Jordan.

"I had limited knowledge of that (cigarette) operation, but I'm sure his goal in stopping it was to get to the bottom of it," Clark said.

Following the meeting, council members said they will take into account public comments.

"I'll go home and write out all of the notes I took and take some time to filter it all in," Councilman Billy Hobbssaid. "I'll listen to anyone who wants to come and talk with me, even if it's at work."

Ward said she is waiting for the results of the audit and investigation before making any decisions about the cigarette operation.

"Citizens' input is important, but it's also essential that we find out the facts before we make any decisions," she said.